SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual - Swinburne University of ...

SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual
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SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

Prepared by:
(Health and Safety
Executive)
Names Signature Date
Nastassia Denis
Reviewed by:
(Senior Lecturer –
Engineering / Laboratory
Coordinator - SoECS)
Approved by:
(Head of School - SoECS)
Wallace Wong
Anatoli Vakhguelt
Associated to Documents
Emergency Management Policy and Procedure
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Incident / Hazard reporting and Investigation Procedure
First Aid Procedure
Hazard Identification Risk Assessment & Control Evaluation (HIRACE) Procedure
Adapted from SUT FEIS Safety Manual prepared by: P. Watson, Faculty Technical Operations Manager
This safety manual should be reviewed and revised when deemed necessary.
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SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

CONTENTS
1. Responsibilities 5
Pages
2. General Laboratory / Workshop Practices 7
3. Waste Handling 13
3.1 Decontamination
3.2 Biohazard Waste Disposal
3.3 Chemicals Waste Disposal
3.4 Sharps
3.5 Contaminated (potentially infectious) materials for autoclaving and reuse
3.6 Contaminated (potentially infectious) materials for disposal
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 15
4.1 Lab coats, Gowns, Coveralls, Aprons
4.2 Goggles, Safety Spectacles, Face Shields
4.3 Respirators
4.4 Gloves
4.5 Foot Protection
4.6 Ear Protection
4.7 Head Protection
5. Hazardous Chemicals 18
5.1 Store of Chemicals
5.2 General Rules Regarding Chemical Incompatibilities
5.3 Toxic Effects of Chemicals
5.4 Explosive Chemicals
5.5 Chemical Spills
5.6 Compressed and Liquefied Gases
5.7 Handling of Cylinders
5.8 Cryogenic Liquids
5.9 Handling Cryogenic Liquids
5.10 Moving Cylinders
5.11 Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
5.12 Labelling
6. Fire Hazards 24
6.1 How To Use an Extinguisher
6.2 Sand / Absorbent Material
6.3 Sprinklers
7. Storage Handling 28
7.1 Type of Cabinets
7.2 Refrigerators
7.3 Eye Wash Station
7.4 First Aid Kit
7.5 Emergency
7.6 Fire Drill
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8. Incident, Hazard Reporting and Identification 30
9. Electrical Hazards 30
10. Noise 30
11. Ionising Radiation 30
11.1 Principles of Ionizing Radiation Protect
12. Housekeeping 31
13. Worksite Inspection 32
14. Training 32
Appendix 1 33
Appendix 2 34
Appendix 3 35
Appendix 4 36
Appendix 5 37
Appendix 6 38
Appendix 7 40
Appendix 8 41
Appendix 9 42
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SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

Swinburne University of Technology (Sarawak Campus) strives to ensure safety and health of
persons at the University and protecting others from safety and health risks in connection to
the activities at the University.
The School of Engineering & Science (SoES) at the University fully embraces the
University’s commitment to ensure safe and healthy teaching, learning and research
environment at the School.
This document provides the guidelines for good Occupational Safety and Health practices to be
followed by staff, student and visitor at the SoES.
REFERENCES
Name
Occupational Safety
and Health, 1994
Location
http://www.dosh.gov.my/doshV2/index.php?option=com_phocadownload&view=c
ategory&id=6%3Aregulations-under-occupational-safety-and-health-act-1994-act-
514&Itemid=99&lang=en
WHO Laboratory
Biosafety Manual (3 rd
Edition)
Princeton University
http://www.who.int/csr/resources/publications/biosafety/Biosafety7.pdf
http://web.princeton.edu/sites/ehs/labsafetymanual/sec7f.htm
University of
Wollongong
http://www.uow.edu.au/content/groups/public/@web/@eng/documents/
doc/uow062918.pdf
John Hopkins
University
1. Responsibilities
Heads of Management units shall:
http://www.civil.jhu.edu/current-undergraduatefacilities/JHU%20CE%20Laboratory%20Manual.pdf
To ensure suitable OS&H policies and practices for civil, mechanical, electrical and chemical
laboratories are developed, implemented and continuously improved.
Ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, that adequate financial provision is made available to
implement the policies and practices
Ensure that staff and students receive the appropriate information, instruction and training
necessary for them to perform work safely;
Laboratory Coordinator shall:
Ensure that all staff and students receive an induction that includes information pertaining to
emergency response procedures and personnel;
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Ensure that local occupational health and safety procedures are developed, documented and
issued to staff and students as appropriate;
Ensure that the facilities and equipment provided for staff and students are safe and suitable
for the types of work to be carried out;
Ensure that adequate financial provisions are made for occupational health and safety
equipment and materials and the maintaining of occupational health and safety standards;
Ensure that hazard identification and risk assessment procedures are developed,
documented and maintained for the use, handling, storage, transport and disposal of
equipment, materials and substances and that appropriate risk controls are implemented and
maintained
To work with the different university departments (facilities, ITS, admin) to ensure OS&H quality.
Staff & Students shall:
Take reasonable care for their own health & safety, and for the health & safety of anyone else who
may be affected by their acts or omissions in the work / study environment.
Follow local arrangements / guidelines developed under this manual and any other additional
requirements or procedures set out by the school.
Report any hazards, incidents / near misses or injury / illness to the laboratory support staff
Attend / participate in any safety training provided.
Staff shall :
Be alert to unsafe conditions and actions, and call attention to them so that
corrections can be made as soon as possible.
Label all storage areas, refrigerators, cabinets, etc. appropriately and keep all
chemicals in properly labelled containers.
Develop and implement a specific OS&H strategy within individual laboratories.
Inform all staff & student of the specific hazards (chemicals, equipment) present in
the laboratory and carry out the necessary steps to keep these hazards at bay.
Analyse OS&H risk for all processes in the laboratory.
Prepare Material Safety Data Sheets for chemicals available in laboratories.
Obtain advice from Health and Safety Executive for the use of high-risk chemicals
or equipment and the relevant procedures as required.
The Health and Safety Executive shall:
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Assist Head of School and Laboratory Coordinator to ensure OHS training has been delivered to
the appropriate personnel to enable them to fulfil their obligations under this manual.
Disseminate information arising from lab hazard to staff and students
Provide training and guidance to Heads of School, laboratory coordinator, staff and students
pertaining to safety in the laboratory / workshop
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

2. General Laboratory / Workshop Practices
1. No food and drinks are allowed in the laboratory at all time.
2. No smoking in the laboratory.
3. No horseplay in the laboratory.
4. Only covered shoes are to be worn in the laboratory. Open sandals are not permitted.
5. Shirt or blouse must be at least short sleeves and legs must be covered with long pants
when working in laboratory. Students are not allowed to wear jewelry during laboratory classes /
workshop practical.
6. Long hair must be tied back to reduce fire or chemical hazards.
7. Keep hands and other objects away from your face, nose, eyes, ears and especially mouth. Do
not chew pens, etc.
8. Place bags, books and other personal items in specified location. Never put them on the
working area.
9. Wear the appropriate PPE (e.g. safety glass or goggles) during the experiment / practical
workshops. Everyone is responsible on their own PPE. Do not leave the PPE unused on the table
or on the floor. Return the PPE in its designated location.
10. Report all injuries, accidents and broken equipment immediately to your demonstrators.
Never engaged in horseplay, pranks or other act of mischief in the laboratory.
11. Students are NOT permitted to work in the laboratory / workshop unless the demonstrator or
laboratory instructor is present.
12. Familiarize yourself with the safety equipment (safety shower, emergency eyewash, fire
blanket, and fire extinguisher) in the laboratory and emergency escape routes.
13. The use of contact lenses is not advisable. Even when worn under safety goggles, various fumes
may accumulate under the lens and cause serious injuries or blindness.
Microbiology / Biology / Biochemistry Laboratory Practices and Safety Rules
14. Wash your hands with disinfectants soap when you enter the laboratory and again before you
leave the laboratory.
15. Laboratory coats must be worn and buttoned in the laboratory.
16. Disposable gloves and other protective equipment (safety glass or goggles) have to be worn
during the experiment.
17. Thick insulated gloves must be worn to remove items from hot water baths. The lids of water
baths must be opened such that the opening is away from the user. Never put a hand into the
water baths to check for temperature. Use a thermometer.
18. Working area must be disinfected with 70% ethanol at the beginning of the practical session
and again when you have finished the exercises.
19. Do not work with an uncovered cut. Bandages and gloves are available if needed.
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20. Be careful around Bunsen burner. Turn the burner on only when you are ready to use it and turn
it off immediately after use even if you have to use it for several short intervals. Blue flame of
Bunsen burner is often difficult to see.
21. All cultures should be handled as being potentially pathogenic and the following precautions
should be observed at all times:
a) Label all materials and cultures with your name, date and any other applicable
information (e.g., media, organism and etc)
b) Cultures must always be carried in a test tube rack when moving around the
laboratory.
c) Cultures must be kept in a test tube rack on the bench tops when not in use.
d) Inoculating loops and needles should be flame sterilized in a Bunsen burner before
you lay them on the bench top.
e) Do not walk around the laboratory with loops or pipettes containing infectious
materials.
f) Never pipette anything by mouth including broth cultures and water. Always use the
pipetting devices.
g) Report any chemical or biological fluid spillages to your demonstrators. Do not attempt
to clean the spillages yourself.
h) Never take cultures out of the laboratory unless absolute necessary.
22. Note the hazard code on the bottle when handling chemicals and take the appropriate precautions
indicated. Read all labels on chemicals twice before using them in the laboratory.
23. Never leave sharp items (knives, forceps, surgical blades and needles) on the workbench
which can hurt yourself or someone. All sharp instruments must remain in their wrappings until you
are ready to use it.
24. Removal of equipment and media from laboratory is prohibited without written permission of
the demonstrators or laboratory instructors.
25. Dispose waste into their proper containers. (see Biohazard Waste Disposal below).
26. Do not pour anything down the sink. Autoclave liquids and broth cultures to sterilize them
before discarding them.
27. Dispose all solid waste materials in a biohazard bag and autoclave them before discarding in
the regular trash.
28. Glassware should be washed with soap and water, and then rinsed with distilled water.
29. Return all chemicals, reagents, culture and glassware to their appropriate places.
Handling Life Culture
30. Treat all microorganisms as if they were harmful. Use antiseptic procedures, as directed by your
lecturer when working with microbes. Dispose of microbes as your lecturer directs.
31. Treat living organisms carefully. Do not cause pain, discomfort, or injury to an organism. Follow
your lecturer's directions when handling animals. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling
animals or their cages.
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Preparation for Lab Work
32. Prepare for the experiment by reading all of the directions before you start the lab. Be sure you
understand all directions. Discuss the procedures with your lab partner or team. Assign specific
tasks to individuals, especially if time is a factor in the procedure.
33. Before you begin work, make sure that you know how to operate the equipment that will be used in
the experiment.
34. After you have completed your work, turn off all equipment and clean your work area. Return all
equipment and materials to the place that you got them. Report any broken or missing equipment.
35. Keep hands away from your face, eyes, mouth and body while using chemicals or preserved
specimens. Wash your hands before and after each experiment.
36. Perform only those experiments authorized by your teacher. Never do an experiment that is not
called for in the laboratory procedures or your instructor.
37. Do not work alone in the lab. When entering the room, do not touch any equipment, chemicals or
other materials in the laboratory area until you are instructed to do so.
38. Experiments must be personally monitored at all times. You will be assigned a laboratory station
at which to work. Do not wander around the room, distract other students, or interfere with the
laboratory experiments of others.
Handling Chemicals, Equipment & Glassware
39. Read the labels on chemical containers twice. Label all containers into which you put materials.
40. Do not touch, taste, or smell chemicals unless directed to by your lecturer. Waft fumes toward
your nose by waving your hand over the mouth of the container if directed to smell a chemical.
41. Take only what you need to avoid the contamination of chemicals. Do not return unused chemicals
to the bottle. Dispose of chemicals only as directed by your lecturer.
42. Always pour acid into water; never pour water into acid.
43. Do not use your mouth to draw liquids into a pipette; use a pipette bulb.
44. Never point the open end of a heated test tube toward yourself or anyone else.
45. Do not use cracked, chipped, scored, or badly scratched glassware.
46. Never handle broken glass with your bare hands.
47. Allow plenty of time for hot glass to cool before touching it. It shows no visible signs of its
temperature, and can cause painful burns.
48. Learn the names of the equipment and glassware you use so there is no misunderstanding.
49. Handle all equipment as directed. Note safety precautions in the instructions for your experiments.
50. Handle all sharp instruments with extreme care. Never try to catch falling sharp instruments
51. Do not stir solutions with a thermometer; use a glass stirring rod. If a thermometer breaks, inform
your teacher at once. Do not touch the mercury from broken mercury thermometers.
52. Take extreme care not to spill materials in the lab. Report all spills immediately, and follow your
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SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

lecturer’s directions for cleaning them up. Keep your lab area neat and clean.
53. Never use an open flame in Biology lab. Use tongs or a clamp to pick up hot containers. Test the
temperatures of equipment and containers that have been heated by placing the back of your hand
near any object before picking it up. If you can feel heat, the object might be too hot to handle.
54. Dispose of materials only as directed. Do not pour chemicals or other solids into a sink or put
specimens or their parts into the trash or sink.
Access to Laboratory / Workshop
55. Permitted lab users got no authorisation to allow other people (i.e. friends, family, group members)
to enter the laboratory to joint in/help out the experiment, or for leisure purposes. Official written
permission is required if more members are needed to conduct the experiment. Existing user may
only grant enter permission to others for purpose of collecting and sending in samples to the
laboratory, but general safety codes must be strictly followed.
Working Alone
56. Working alone refers to situations where people may be exposed to risks because:
• the area they are working in is remote from others or isolated from the assistance of others
because the nature, time or location of their work; or
• it involves the operation or maintenance of equipment, or the handling of a hazardous
substance; or
• the work is dangerous for a person to perform alone
Where any of the above is applicable, working alone must be avoided.
For working alone, the following apply:
• Staff and students may work alone in office environments, however, they must have
completed the after hours access permission from laboratory support staff.
• Staff and students must not work alone in workshops/laboratories where medium to high
risk equipment is to be used.
• Emergency assistance – refer to the Emergency poster for important contacts.
Chemistry / Biochemistry Laboratory Practices and Safety Rules
57. Wear disposable gloves or safety glasses when appropriate.
58. Use UV goggles and protective clothing when work with UV light box. This is to minimize the
risk or exposure to the UV light.
59. Thick insulated gloves must be worn to remove items from hot water baths. The lids of water
baths must be opened such that the opening is away from the user. Never put a hand into the
water baths to check for temperature. Use a thermometer.
60. Appropriate protective gloves must be worn for removing or placing items into freezers and
while using liquid nitrogen.
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61. Do not touch the hot plate directly to find out whether it is hot.
62. Do not work with an uncovered cut. Bandages and gloves are available if needed.
63. Be careful around Bunsen burner. Turn the burner on only when you are ready to use it and turn
it off immediately after use even if you have to use it for several short intervals. Blue flame of
Bunsen burner is often difficult to see.
64. Mouth pipetting is prohibited under all circumstances.
65. Note the hazard code on the bottle when handling chemicals and take the appropriate
precautions indicated. Read all labels on chemicals twice before using them in the laboratory.
66. Keep all noxious and volatile chemicals in the fume hood.
67. Do not dispose hazardous or noxious chemicals into the sink. All chemicals are to be
disposed in waste containers. Pay attention to the waste container labels before adding the
chemical to be discarded
68. Always add acids to water and never water to acids.
69. When using reagent, replace the lid immediately after used. Never return unused reagents to
the stock bottles. Take only the amount needed for the experiment.
70. Use caution when testing for odors. Never inhale the fumes directly. Waft them towards your
nose carefully.
71. Never leave sharp items (knives, forceps, surgical blades and needles) on the workbench
which can hurt yourself or someone. All sharp instruments must remain in their wrappings until you
are ready to use it.
72. Do not use force for inserting glass pipettes or Pasteur pipettes into the rubber bulbs or
dispensers. These can break and cause severe cuts. Use the bulbs or dispensers of a size which
is appropriate for the size of the pipettes.
73. Do not use any electrical equipment with frayed wirer or connections. This is most dangerous
and will cause electrical shocks.
74. Dispose of all biological waste in appropriate receptacles. Living cultures have to be treated
with Clorox bleach or autoclaved. Never toss them into regular trash or down the drains without
autoclaving.
75. Dispose waste into their proper containers. (see Biohazard Waste Disposal below)
76. Removal of equipment and media from laboratory is prohibited without proper authorization.
77. Glassware should be washed with soap and water, and then rinsed with distilled water.
78. Return all chemicals, reagents, and glassware to their appropriate place.
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SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

Engineering Workshop Practices and Safety Rules
79. Attire: In the labs, students must wear appropriate cloths for the work being performed. Loose
cloths and shorts are not allowed. Jewelry is prohibited during workshops.
80. Toe Protection: Students must always wear closed-toe shoes in the labs. Sandals and heels are
not allowed.
81. Eye Protection: Flying objects, tools, and particles cause eye injuries. In addition to the proper use
of machine guards and screens, eye protection such as safety glasses and goggles must be used
during the work that may have potential hazard to eyes including sawing, cutting, drilling, grinding,
etc. Pairs of safety glasses can be found with the laboratory support staff.
82. Hand Protection: Students must wear safety gloves during the work that may have any hazard to
hands (e.g., lifting heavy metal pieces). Pairs of gloves can be found with the laboratory support
staff.
83. Head Protection: While working on assembly of test setups and perform dynamic or destructive
tests, students have to wear hard hat to protect their head. Hard hats can be found with the
laboratory support staff.
84. Mouth Protection: During the work that have potential risks for air quality such as soldering and
painting, wear protection masks. Masks can be found with the laboratory support staff.
85. Ear Protection: While using noisy power tools such as band saws, use ear plugs or protection to
prevent ear injuries. Ear plugs can be found with the laboratory support staff.
86. Common Sense: Use common sense to ensure safety of the work in the labs. If you are not sure
about the safety of your work, never attempt. Ask the laboratory support staff.
87. Awareness: If you observe a potentially dangerous act in the labs, report it to the laboratory
coordinator or the laboratory support staff. It is your responsibility to reduce risks of injuries and
accidents in the workshop.
88. Electric Power: Read specifications of the devices prior to connecting power supplies. Use only the
specified power supply. Securely cover extension cords to prevent accidental power loss.
89. Hydraulic Power: Hydraulic systems used for actuators and loading frames are under high
pressure. Before starting hydraulic pumps, always check that valves are closed and connections
are clean. If leakage is found, stop the pump immediately and notify the laboratory support staff.
90. Ventilation: Do not turn off ventilation fans to keep the air in the labs clean. If extra ventilation is
needed (e.g., in case of indoor painting), consult the laboratory support staff and arrange the
schedule to perform the required work.
91. Lifting and Moving Heavy Items: When lifting and moving of heavy items are required, students
must consult the laboratory support staff. Do not attempt without presence of at least one of them.
Use protection items and appropriate items such as overhead crane with an assistance of
laboratory support staff.
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SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

3. Waste Handling
3.1 Decontamination
Steam autoclaving is the preferred method for all decontamination processes. Materials for
decontamination and disposal should be placed in containers, e.g. autoclavable plastic bags, that are
colour-coded to whether the contents are to be autoclaved and/or incinerated. Alternative methods
may be envisaged only if they remove and/or kill microorganisms.
Handling and disposal procedures for contaminated materials and wastes
1. Non-contaminated (non-infectious) waste that can be used or recycled or disposed of a
general “household waste”
2. Contaminated (infectious) “sharps” – hypodermic needles, scalpels, knives and broken glass;
these should always be collected in puncture-proof containers fitted with covers and treated as
infectious
3. Contaminated material for decontamination by autoclaving and thereafter washing and reuse
or recycling
4. Contaminated material for autoclaving and disposal
5. Contaminated material for direct incineration
3.2 Biohazard Waste Disposal
Dispose of items are indicated as below. Any question regarding the proper disposal, please ask your
demonstrators or laboratory instructors.
Table 1 : Biohazard Waste Disposal
Material
Agar slants with biological material
Biological liquids
Petri dishes and contaminated solids
Broken glass (contaminated)
Broken glass (not contaminated)
Cotton swabs, Pasteur pipette, disposable
tips, glass slides (contaminated)
Method of disposal
Place in autoclave bag and autoclave them
before discard in trash can.
Place in autoclave bag and autoclave them
before discard in trash can.
Place in autoclave bag and autoclave them
before discard in trash can.
Disinfected with disinfectant and then place
in sharps container
Sharps container
Disinfectant container (beakers or cylinder)
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Needles, syringes, pipette, other types of
sharps
Non-contaminated paper
Sharps container
Regular trash
3.3 Chemicals Waste Disposal
Dispose of items are indicated as below. Any question regarding the proper disposal, please consult
the laboratory support staff for advice. In general, waste products may be disposed of in three ways:
1. Chemicals that are toxic, or harmful to the environment, should be placed in the bins provided
for their waste.
2. Chemicals, which are mildly toxic, but not harmful to the environment, may be washed down
the sinks located in the fume cupboards.
3. Chemicals that are neither toxic nor harmful to the environment may be flushed down the
sinks. In general you will be informed when this is safe to do so.
4. Do not put acidic or basic waste (pH 9) in metal cans. Metal cans corrode in a very
short time. Keep acids and bases separate from hydrocarbons and ethers.
5. When possible, keep all carcinogens/mutagens/teratogens separate from other waste. Keep
aqueous wastes separate from organic solvents. Keep halogenated solvents and wastes
separate from non-halogenated solvents. DO NOT FILL CONTAINERS TO THE TOP. Fill
plastic carboys ONLY to the fill line. Leave about 50 mm at the top of all other containers. All
waste must reside in closed, non-leaking containers. Do not use flasks or test tubes with
stoppers, beakers with parafilm, or bottles with ground glass stoppers. The outside of the
waste container must be reasonably clean.
6. Do not put liquids (especially phenol) in bottles designed for solids. They leak!
7. All chemical waste containers must remain CLOSED (capped).
For proper chemical disposal, please refer to Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) prepared in the lab.
3.4 Sharps
After use, hypodermic needles should not be recapped, clipped or removed from disposable syringes.
The complete assembly should be placed in a sharps disposal container. Disposable syringes, used
alone or with needles, should be placed in sharps disposal containers and incinerated, with prior
autoclaving if required.
Sharps disposal containers must be puncture-proof/-resistant and must not be filled to capacity. When
they are three quarters full they should be placed in “infectious waste” containers and incinerated, with
prior autoclaving if laboratory practice requires it. Sharps disposal containers must not be discarded in
landfills.
3.5 Contaminated (Potentially Infectious) Materials for Autoclaving and Reuse
No pre-cleaning should be attempted of any contaminated (potentially infectious) materials to be
autoclaved and reused. Any necessary cleaning or repair must be done only after autoclaving or
disinfection.
3.6 Contaminated (Potentially Infectious) Materials for Disposal
Apart from sharps, which are dealt with above, all contaminated (potentially infectious) materials
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should be autoclave in leakproof containers, e.g. autoclavable, colour-coded plastic bags, before
disposal.
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
4.1 Laboratory Coats, Gowns, Coveralls, Aprons
Laboratory coats should preferably be fully buttoned. Aprons may be worn over laboratory coats
or gowns where necessary to give further protection against spillage of chemicals or biological
materials such as blood or culture fluids.
Different clothing materials protect against different elements:
Type of Material
Function
Cotton - protects against flying objects, sharp or rough edges,
and is a good fire retardant.
Synthetic Fibres - protect against sparks, infrared and ultraviolet radiation.
However, synthetic fibre lab coats can adversely magnify
the effects of some laboratory hazards. For instance, some
solvents may dissolve particular classes of synthetic fibres,
thereby diminishing the protective ability of the coat.
In addition, on contact with flames, some synthetic fibres
will melt. This molten material can cause painful skin burns
and release irritating fumes.
Wool - protects against splashes of molten materials,
small quantities of acid, and small flames.
Aluminised and
Reflective Clothing
- protect against radiant heat
Table 2 : Clothing Materials
4.2 Goggles, Safety Spectacles, Face Shields
The choice of equipment to protect eyes and face from splashes and impacting objects will
depend on the activity performed. Prescription or plain eye glasses can be manufactured with
special frames that allow lenses to be placed in frame from the front, using shatterproof material
either curved or fitted with side shields (safety glasses).
Safety spectacles do not provide for adequate splash protection even when side shields are
worn with them. Goggles for splash and impact protection should be worn over normal
prescription against biological or chemical hazards). Face shields (visors) are made of
shatterproof plastic, fit over the face and are held in place by head straps or caps.
Goggles, safety spectacles, or face shields should not be worn outside the laboratory areas.
4.3 Respirators
Respiratory protection may be used when carrying out high-hazard procedures (e.g. cleaning up
a spill of infectious material). The choice of respirator will depend on the type of hazard (s).
Respirators are available with interchangeable filters for protection against gases, vapours,
particulates and microorganisms. It is imperative that the filter is fitted in the correct type of
respirator. To achieve optimal protection, respirators should be individually fitted to the
operator’s face and tested. Fully self-contained respirators with an integral air supply provide full
protection. Advice should be sought from a suitably qualified person e.g. an occupational
hygienist, for selection of the correct respirator. Surgical type masks are designed solely for
patient protection and do not provide respiratory protection to workers.
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Respirators should not be worn outside the laboratory areas.
4.4 Gloves
Aside from acting as a shield between hands and hazardous materials, some
gloves can also absorb perspiration and protect the hands from heat. Certain
glove types can dissolve when in contact with solvents, it is important to take
extra care in matching the protective glove with the nature of the job. Before
use, check to make sure the gloves (especially latex gloves) are in good
condition and free from holes, punctures and tears.
Aside from acting as a shield between hands and hazardous materials, some
gloves can also absorb perspiration and protect the hands from heat. Certain
glove types can dissolve when in contact with solvents, it is important to take
extra care in matching the protective glove with the nature of the job. Before
use, check to make sure the gloves (especially latex gloves) are in good
condition and free from holes, punctures and tears.
When working with extremely corrosive material, wear thick gloves. Take extra
precaution in checking for holes, punctures, and tears.
Care should be taken when removing gloves. Peel the glove off the hand,
starting at the wrist and working toward the fingers. Keep the working surface
of the glove from contacting skin during removal. Disposable gloves should be
discarded in designated containers (e.g. regulated medical waste containers).
Type of Gloves
Function
Plastic - protects against light corrosives and irritants
Latex - provides light protection against irritants
(some people can
have an allergic reaction to latex which can lead to a
serious medical
condition).
Natural Rubber - protects against light corrosive material and electric
shock.
Neoprene - for working with solvents, oils, or light corrosive
material.
Cotton - absorbs perspiration, keeps objects clean,
provides some fire
retarding properties.
Zetex - when handling small burning objects. These
are a good
replacement for asbestos gloves.
Asbestos - BANNED
Table 3 : Type of Gloves
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Disposable microbiologically approved latex, vinyl or nitrile surgical-type gloves are used widely
for general laboratory work, and for handling infectious agents and blood and body fluids.
Reusable gloves may also be used but attention be given to their correct washing, removal,
cleaning and disinfection.
Gloves should be removed and hands thoroughly washed after handling infectious materials,
working in a biological safety cabinet and before leaving the laboratory. Used disposable gloves
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

should be discarded with infected laboratory wastes.
4.5 Foot Protection
a. Foot protection is designed to prevent injury from corrosive chemicals, heavy objects,
electrical shock, as well as giving traction on wet floors. If a corrosive chemical or heavy
object were to fall on the floor the most vulnerable portion of the body would be the feet. For
this reason shoes that COMPLETELY COVER AND PROTECT the foot are recommended.
b. Fabric shoes, such as tennis shoes absorb liquids readily. If chemicals happen to spill onto
fabric shoes, remove the footwear immediately.
c. When selecting footwear for the laboratory or workshop, choose sturdy leather shoes that
cover the foot, these will provide the best protection.
d. The following shoe types should not be worn in the laboratory/workshop:
i. Sandals
ii. Thongs
iii. Clogs
High heels shoes that expose the foot IN ANY WAY
e. The following are recommended types of footwear:
i. Safety Toe Shoes (steel-toed) --protect against crushing injuries caused by impact from
any object during work activities (e.g., lifting heavy objects, using power tools, etc.).
ii.
Treated shoes, Rubber Boots or Plastic Shoe Covers --protect against corrosive
chemicals.
iii.
Insulated Shoes – when welding they will protect against electric shock.
4.6 Ear Protection
Ear protection should be worn where the noise level is above 85 decibels
(dB). Areas where excessive noise is present should be posted with signs
indicating ear protection is required.
Ear protectors should be readily available and composed of rubber or plastic.
Types of ear protection include:
i. Earplugs --provide basic protection to seal the ear against noise and
are to be disposed of after use.
ii. Ear muffs --provide extra protection against noise and are more
comfortable than earplugs and are recommended for prolong use.
iii. Cotton inserts --are poor suppressers of noise and should be avoided.
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4.7 Head Protection
a. Some environments within the University and off site have the potential for falling or flying
objects. In these situations, appropriate head protection will protect workers from impacts,
penetration by falling and flying objects, electric shock and burns.
b. Unrestrained long hair can be hazardous the use of caps, elastic bands or hair nets will
prevent the hair from coming into contact with instruments/machinery parts or flame-producing
sources.
5. Hazardous Chemicals
Routes of exposure
Exposure to hazardous chemicals may occur by:
1. Inhalation
2. Contact
3. Ingestion
4. Needle-sticks
5. Through broken skin
5.1 Store of Chemicals
Only amounts of chemicals necessary for daily use should be stored in the laboratory.
Bulk stocks should be kept in specially designated rooms or buildings.
Chemicals should not be stored in alphabetical order.
5.2 General rules regarding chemical incompatibilities
To avoid fire and/or explosions, substances below should be stored and handled so that
they cannot come into contact with the corresponding substances in the right-hand
column of the table.
Substance Category
Alkali metals, e.g.
sodium, potassium,
caesium and lithium
Incompatible Substances
Carbon dioxide, chlorinated
hydrocarbons, water
Halogens
Acetic acid, hydrogen
sulphide, aniline,
hydrocarbons,
sulphuric acid
Ammonia, acetylene, hydrocarbons
Oxidizing agents, e.g. chromic acid,
nitric acid, peroxides,
permanganates
Table 4 : Chemical Incompatibilities
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5.3 Toxic effects of Chemicals
Some chemicals adversely affect the health of those who handle them or inhale their
vapours. Apart from overt poisons, a number of chemicals are known to have various
toxic effects. The respiratory system, blood, lungs, liver, kidneys and the gastrointestinal
system, as well as other organs and tissues may be adversely affected or seriously
damaged. Some chemicals are known to be carcinogenic or teratogenic.
Some solvent vapours are toxic when inhaled. Apart from the more serious effects noted
above, exposure may result in impairments that show no immediate discernible effects
on health, but can include lack of coordination, drowsiness and similar symptoms,
leading to an increased proneness to accident.
Prolonged or repeated exposure to the liquid phase of many organic solvents can result
in skin damage. This may be due to a defatting effect, but allergic and corrosive
symptoms may also arise.
5.4 Explosive Chemicals
Azides, often used in antibacterial solutions, should not be allowed to come into contact
with copper or lead (e.g. in waste pipes and plumbing), as they may explode violently
when subjected even to a mild impact.
Ethers that have aged and dried to crystals are extremely unstable, and potentially
explosive.
Perchloric acid, if allowed to dry on woodwork, brickwork or fabric, will explode and
cause a fire on impact.
Picric acid and picrates are denoted by heat and impact.
5.5 Chemical Spills
Most manufacturers of laboratory chemicals issue charts describing methods for dealing
with spills. Spillage charts and spillage kits are also available commercially. Appropriate
charts should be displayed in a prominent position in the laboratory. The following
equipment should also be provided:
1. Chemical spill kits
2. Protective clothing
3. Scoops and dustpans
4. Forceps for picking up broken glass
5. Mops, clothes and paper towels
6. Buckets
7. Soda ash (sodium carbonat) or sodium bicarbonate for neutralizing acids and
corrosive chemcials
8. Sand
9. Non-flammable detergent
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The following actions should be taken in the event of a significant chemical spill.
1. Notify the appropriate safety officer
2. Evacuate non-essential personnel from the area
3. Attend to persons who may have been contaminated
4. If the spilled material is flammable, extinguish all open flames, turn off gas in the
room and adjacent areas, open windows (if possible) and switch off electrical
equipment that may spark
5. Avoid breathing vapour from spilled material
6. Establish exhaust ventilation if it is safe to do so
7. Secure necessary items to clean up the spill
5.6 Compressed and Liquefied Gases
Container
Compressed
gas cylinders
and liquefied
gas containers
Small, singleuse
gas
cylinders
Storage Information
Should be securely fixed (e.g.
chained) to the wall or a solid bench
so that they are not inadvertently
dislodged
Must be transported with their caps in
place and supported on trolleys
Should be stored in bulk in an
appropriate facility at some distance
from the laboratory. This area should
be locked and appropriately
identified.
Should not be placed near radiators,
open flames other heat sources,
sparking electrical equipment, or in
direct sunlight.
Must not be incinerated
The main high-pressure valve should be turned off when the equipment is not in use and
when the room is unoccupied.
Rooms where flammables gas cylinders are used and/or stored should be identified by
warning notices on the doors.
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Compressed gas containers may be labelled in five ways:
Type of Gas
Type of Label
Flammable Gas labels show a flame on red label.
Non-flammable
Gas
labels depict a gas canister on a
green
background.
Poisonous Gas labels show skull and crossbones.
Oxygencontaining
Gas
labels are designated by a flaming
letter "O".
Chlorine Gas labels are distinctly marked.
Table 6 : Labelling of gas containers
5.7 Handling of Cylinders
1. The contents of the cylinder or compressed gas should be clearly marked and
identified with proper labels or tags on the shoulder of the cylinder. Those
cylinders or compressed gases that do not comply with identification
requirements should be returned.
2. If two labels are associated with one cylinder, affix the labels 180°apart on
the shoulder of each cylinder. Label all empty cylinders EMPTY or MT and
date the tag.
3. All regulators, gauges, valves, manifolds, must be designed for the particular
pressures and gases involved and should be checked regularly.
4. All cylinders should be stored in cool, dry, well-ventilated surroundings and
away from all flammable substances including oil, greases, and gasoline.
5. Cylinders should not be located where objects may strike or fall on them.
6. DO NOT use cylinders for rolling, supports, or any purpose other than the
transportation and supply of gas.
7. Cylinders should not be stored in damp areas, or near salt, corrosive
chemicals, fumes, heat, or direct sunlight. Store cylinders by gas type,
separating oxidizing gases from flammable gases.
8. All cylinders and compressed gases (full or empty) should be properly
fastened and supported by straps, belts, buckles, or chains to prevent them
from falling and causing bodily harm.
9. A cylinder should only be moved while strapped to a wheel cart to ensure
stability. When storing or moving cylinders, always attach safety caps.
10. All cylinders should be checked for damage prior to use. DO NOT attempt to
repair damaged cylinders. Damaged or defective cylinders, valves, etc., must
be taken out of use immediately and returned to the manufacturer for repair.
21
11. Each regulator valve should be inspected annually. Never force valve or
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

egulator connections. Threads and the configuration of valve outlets are
different for each family of gases to prevent mixing of incompatible gases.
12. Open cylinder valves SLOWLY. Do not use a wrench to open or close a hand
wheel type cylinder valve. If it cannot be operated by hand, the valve should
be repaired.
13. DO NOT subject any part of a cylinder to a temperature higher than 50 °C. DO
NOT drop cylinders or permit them to strike anything violently. DO NOT
SMOKE in areas where there are flammable gases. DO NOT extinguish a
flame caused by a gas until the gas source has been shut off. DO NOT place
a cylinder where it may become part of an electrical circuit. DO NOT use
lubrication on valve regulators.
5.8 Cryogenic Liquids
1. Cryogenic liquids have boiling points less than -73ºC (-100ºF). Liquid
nitrogen, liquid oxygen and carbon dioxide are the most common
cryogenic materials used in the laboratory. Hazards may include fire,
explosion, embrittlement, pressure build up, frostbite and asphyxiation.
2. Many of the safety precautions observed for compressed gases also apply
to cryogenic liquids. Two additional hazards are created from the unique
properties of cryogenic liquids:
a. Extremely Low Temperatures –The cold boil-off vapor of
cryogenic liquids rapidly freezes human tissue. Most metals
become stronger upon exposure to cold temperatures, but
materials such as carbon steel, plastics and rubber become brittle
or even fracture under stress at these temperatures. Proper
material selection is important. Cold burns and frostbite caused by
cryogenic liquids can result in extensive tissue damage.
b. Vaporization - All cryogenic liquids produce large volumes of gas
when they vaporize. Liquid nitrogen will expand 696 times as it
vaporizes. The expansion ratio of argon is 847:1, hydrogen is
851:1 and oxygen is 862:1. If these liquids vaporize in a sealed
container, they can produce enormous pressures that could
rupture the vessel. (See Anecdotes for an account of such an
incident.) For this reason, pressurized cryogenic containers are
usually protected with multiple pressure relief devices.
c. Vaporization of cryogenic liquids (except oxygen) in an enclosed
area can cause asphyxiation. Vaporization of liquid oxygen can
produce an oxygen-rich atmosphere, which will support and
accelerate the combustion of other materials. Vaporization of
liquid hydrogen can form an extremely flammable mixture with air.
5.9 Handling Cryogenic Liquids
a. Most cryogenic liquids are odorless, colorless, and tasteless when
vaporized. When cryogenic liquids are exposed to the atmosphere,
the cold boil-off gases condense the moisture in the air, creating a
highly visible fog.
b. Always handle these liquids carefully to avoid skin burns and frostbite.
Exposure that may be too brief to affect the skin of the face or hands
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may damage delicate tissues, such as the eyes.
c. Boiling and splashing always occur when charging or filling a warm
container with cryogenic liquid or when inserting objects into these
liquids. Perform these tasks slowly to minimize boiling and splashing.
Use tongs to withdraw objects immersed in a cryogenic liquid.
d. Never touch uninsulated pipes or vessels containing cryogenic liquids.
Flesh will stick to extremely cold materials. Even nonmetallic materials
are dangerous to touch at low temperatures.
e. Use wooden or rubber tongs to remove small items from cryogenic
liquid baths. Cryogenic gloves are for indirect or splash protection
only, they are not designed to protect against immersion into
cryogenic liquids.
f. Cylinders and dewars should not be filled to more than 80% of
capacity, since expansion of gases during warming may cause
excessive pressure build up.
g. Check cold baths frequently to ensure they are not plugged with
frozen material.
5.10 Moving Cylinders
1. The majority of accidents involving gas cylinders occur while moving them
from one location to another. The following control measures should be used
to reduce the potential for an accident:
2. The use of purpose-built trolleys or other suitable devices for gas cylinder
transportation.
3. Securing the gas cylinder’s valve, disconnecting and removing associated
distribution equipment
4. Shutting the cylinder’s valve, disconnecting and removing associated
distribution equipment.
5. A requirement that only properly trained personnel are permitted to move
cylinders.
6. Use properly designed lifting equipment for the movement of larger gas
cylinders.
5.11 Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
a. Make sure every newly received chemical is accompanied with MSDS
and the MSDS should be kept in a designated file dedicated for MSDS
only.
b. Staff and students should familiarise themselves with MSDS and the
location of MSDS.
c. For any incident involving chemicals that requires medical assistance,
make sure to present the MSDS to the medical personnel and return the
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MSDS in the MSDS file.
5.12 Labelling
The following guidelines for all containers of hazardous materials / chemicals
i. There should be an appropriate hazard warning for identification of materials /
chemicals in the container
ii.
iii.
iv.
Name, address, and telephone number of the chemical manufacturer, importer, or
responsible party
Date of receipt or generation of the chemical
Laboratory workers would not remove or deface labels on containers or
hazardous chemicals
v. When chemicals are transferred from the manufacturer’s original container to a
secondary container, that new container should be appropriately labelled as to
chemical identity and hazard warning (s)
vi.
The colour coding and distinctive graphics of a label based on the hazard
classification
a. Container labelling problems with both chemical materials and wastes are
common
b. Container labels get damaged and deteriorated
The absence of labels or misleading labels can pose safety and health hazard and
can be expensive. Expenses can result from:-
a. Good chemical going unused
b. Good chemical being thrown away
c. Bad chemical being substituted from good chemical
d. Lab analysis to establish identification and quality of chemical in
unmarked container
e. Lab analysis to determine hazardous waste characteristics
> Write or print neatly. The label should be clear and easy to read.
> Old labels should not be written over with new or different information. This makes
the label confusing.
> Replacement labels should completely cover the original label, or better, the
original label should be removed.
> Replacement labels should include all the information that was on the original
label.
> Labels for stock solutions should include at least the chemical name and
concentration, as well as any serious hazards that may exist.
> The dimension of label shall be as per Table 7.
> Each danger symbol shall cover at least one tenth of the surface area of the label
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ut shall not be less than one square centimetre.
Capacity of the
package
Dimension in millimetres
Not exceeding three litres At least 52 x 74
Greater than three litres but not
exceeding 50 litres
At least 74 x 105
Greater than 50 litres but not
exceeding 500 litres.
At least 105 x 148
Greater than 500 litres At least 148 x 210
Table 7 : Dimension of Label
6. Fire Hazards
Fire warning, instructions and escape routes should be displayed prominently in each
room and in corridors and hallways.
Common causes of fires in laboratories are:
1. Electrical circuit overloading
2. Poor electrical maintenance
3. Excessively long gas tubing or long electrical leads
4. Equipment unnecessarily left switched on
5. Equipment that was not designed for a laboratory environment
6. Open flames
7. Deteriorated gas tubing
8. Improper handling and storage of flammable or explosive materials
9. Improper segregation of incompatible chemicals
10. Sparking equipment near flammable substances and vapours
11. Improper or inadequate ventilation
Fire fighting equipment should be placed near room doors and a strategic points in
corridors and hallways. This equipment may include hoses, buckets and a fire
extinguisher. Fire extinguishers should be regularly inspected and maintained, and their
shelf-life kept up to date. Specific types and uses of fire extinguishers are as per below:
Extinguishers are classified according to a particular fire type :
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Classification
Fire Type
TYPE A Combustibles wood, cloth, paper,
rubber and plastics
TYPE B Flammable Liquids oil, grease and
paint thinners.
TYPE C Energized Electrical Equipment
electrophoresis.
TYPE D Combustible Metals (magnesium,
titanium, sodium, lithium, potassium)
Table 8 : Classification of Fire Extinguisher
FIRE EXTINGUISHER TYPE USE FOR DO NOT USE FOR
Water
Paper, wood,
fabric
Electrical fires,
flammable
liquids, burning
Carbon dioxide
Dry powder
Foam
Flammable
liquids and
gases, electrical
fires
Flammable
liquid and
gases, alkali
metals,
electrical fires
Flammable
materials
Table 9 : Type of Extinguisher
metals
Alkali metals
Extinguishers are identified by appropriate signage and securely located on the wall near
an exit.
All extinguishers should be inspected at least every 12 months for broken seals, damage,
low gauge pressure or improper mounting. Units should be replaced or recharged if they
have been used, damaged or discharged.
Personal fire safety precautions: Never reach over the fire. Never allow the fire to get
between you and the exit. Never enter an unknown area to fight a fire.
Reusable
equipment and
instruments, as
residues are
very difficult to
remove
Electrical fires
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6.1 HOW TO USE AN EXTINGUISHER: Remember the "PASS" word.
Steps
PULL THE PIN:
AIM:
SQUEEZE:
SWEEP:
Fire Type
Place your hand on the top of the cylinder and pull the
pin. This will unlock the handle and allow you to activate
the unit.
Point the nozzle of the hose at the base of the fire.
the handle (lever) releasing the fire fighting agent.
the nozzle from side to side over the fire. Keep the
nozzle/hose directed at the base of the flame. Empty the
fire extinguisher onto the fire.
Blankets Laboratory personnel are DISCOURAGED from using fire safety blankets as a
means to extinguish a fire. Fire safety blankets should be used as a means to keep shock
victims warm.
6.2 Sand / Absorbent Material
They are designed for fast and easy extinguishing of small fires in the
laboratory. These materials should be stored in a handy dispenser
appropriately labelled and used according to the type of fire.
Do not use sand buckets as ashtrays.
6.3 Sprinklers
Sprinklers are automatically activated. Items in the lab should be stored at
least 18 inches away from the sprinkler heads and should not hang from the
sprinkler heads. Intense heat should not be used near the sprinkler heads.
7. Storage Handling
Both the chemical containers and cabinets should be properly labelled.
Chemicals should NEVER be stored in alphabetical order (unless already
separated out into compatible groups). This system may contribute to the high
probability of incompatible materials being stored next to one another.
Incompatible reagents should not be stored next to each other.
The vent cap on chemical storage cabinets should not be removed from its
location unless the cabinet is attached to an existing ventilation system.
Material Safety Data Sheets for all hazardous chemicals must be made
available and known to all.
Glass containers should be stored on the bottom shelf of storage cabinets.
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7.1 Types of Cabinets
Type of Cabinet
Flammable
liquid cabinets
Function
are designed for storage of
flammable or
combustible liquids.
Acid/corrosive
cabinets
are designed for corrosion
resistance.
Stage cabinets can be used for storage of
flammable and corrosive
liquids outside the laboratory setting.
Table 10 : Type of Cabinets
A “Safety Can” is an approved container of no more than 20 litres capacity. It
has a spring closing lid and spout cover and is designed to safely relieve
pressure build-up within the container. Vent caps may be purchased for
original manufacturer's glass containers to help minimize explosion hazards.
7.2 Refrigerators
a. While domestic refrigeration units are appropriate for keeping foods cold,
they are not designed to meet the special hazards presented by
flammable materials. Therefore, laboratory refrigerators should be
carefully selected for specific chemical storage needs.
b. To prevent potential safety hazards, the length of storage of any material
should be kept to a minimum In addition, refrigerators should be
periodically inspected.
c. Each refrigerator, freezer or cooler is to be prominently labelled with
appropriate hazard signs, e.g. “For Chemical Storage Only. No Food or
Drink Allowed."
d. If radioactive materials are to be stored, a refrigerator must be clearly
labelled
e. The containers placed in the refrigerator should be completely sealed or
capped, securely placed, and permanently labelled. Avoid capping
materials with aluminium foil, corks, and glass stoppers.
f. Because ignitable vapours can build up in normal refrigerators, it is
important to store materials in refrigerators that have self-contained
electrical elements to avoid spark-induced explosions.
g. Explosion-proof refrigerators are specifically designed for hazardous
environments, featuring enclosed motors to eliminate sparking.
h. Refrigerators should be frost free to prevent water drainage .
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7.3 Eye Wash Station
1. Eye wash stations provide an effective means of treatment when chemicals
come in contact with the eyes
2. Water/eye solutions should not be directly aimed onto the eyeball, but rather,
aimed at the base of the nose. This increases the chance of effectively rinsing
the eyes free of chemicals (harsh streams of water may drive particles further
into the eyes).
3. Eyelids may have to be forcibly opened to ensure effective washing behind
the eyelid.
4. Be sure to wash from the nose out to the ear this will avoid washing chemicals
back into the eye or into an unaffected eye.
5. Flood eyes and eyelids with water/eye solution for a minimum of 15 minutes.
6. Remove contact lenses as soon as possible to rinse eyes of any harmful
chemicals.
7. Cover both of the victim's eyes with a clean or sterile gauze.
8. Eye wash stations should be inspected every six months.
9. Plumbed eye wash stations should have protective covers to protect nozzles
from airborne contaminants.
7.4 First Aid Kit
For minor and major injury, notify the laboratory staff in the area and contact the First Aid
Responders as per Appendix 3. First Aid Responders and Wardens are responsible to
ensure the first aid contents in the first aid kit are being replenished frequently.
7.5 Emergency
Refer to Appendix 4 for the Emergency Procedure and Appendix 2 for the Emergency
Numbers. Wardens’ contacts are posted in the Warden posters. Warden posters are
located on each floor of the building in the campus.
7.6 Fire Drill
Participate in the University’s fire drill and cooperate with the Wardens for instructions.
8.Incident, Hazard Reporting and Identification
All incidents, near misses, hazards and injuries must be reported as soon as possible or
within 24 hours to the laboratory support staff by the person who observed the hazard or
who was involved in the incident. If circumstances prevent a person from making a report,
a colleague, witness or the laboratory support staff has this responsibility.
Where the incident involves a visitor, contractor, agency personnel or member of public,
the relevant point of contact for the person within the university shall assist the person to
make a report to the relevant laboratory support staff of the area.
All incident, hazard or injury reports are to be recorded using Swinburne’s incident /
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hazard report form.
Section A for all incidents, hazards or near misses.
Section B where an injury / illness has been sustained.
9. Electrical Hazards
It is essential that all electrical installations and equipment are inspected and tested
regularly, including earthing / grounding systems.
Circuit-breakers and earth-fault-interrupters should be installed in appropriate laboratory
electrical circuits. Circuit-breakers do not protect people; they are intended to protect
wiring from being overloaded with electrical current and hence to prevent fires. Earth-faultinterrupters
are intended to protect people from electric shock.
All laboratory electrical equipment should be earthed/grounded, preferably through threeprong
plugs.
All laboratory electrical equipment and wiring should conform to national electrical safety
standards and codes.
10. Noise
The effect of excessive noise is insidious over time. Some types of laboratory equipment,
such as certain laser systems, as well as facilities where animals are housed, can
produce significant noise exposure to workers. Noise measurement surveys can be
conducted to determine the noise hazard. Where warranted by data, engineering controls
such as enclosures or barriers around noisy equipment or between noisy areas and other
work area can be considered.
Where noise levels cannot be abated and where laboratory personnel routinely experience
excessive exposures, a hearing conservation programme that includes the use of hearing
protection while working in hazardous noise and a medical monitoring programme to
determine the effect of noise on the workers should be instituted.
11. Ionizing Radiation
Radiological protection is concerned with protecting humans against the harmful effects of
ionizing radiation, which include:
1. Somatic effects
2. Hereditary effects
11.1 Principles of Ionizing Radiation Protection
To limit the harmful effects of ionizing radiation, the use of radioisotopes should be
controlled and should comply with relevant national standards. Protection from radiation is
managed on the basis of four principles:
1. Minimizing the time of radiation exposure
2. Maximizing the distance from the radiation source
3. Shielding the radiation source
4. Substituting the use of radionuclides with non-radiometric techniques
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Protection activities include the following.
1. Time. The time exposure experienced during manipulations of radioactive material
can be reduced by:
2. Distance. Doubling the distance from a radiation source will result in reducing the
exposure by one fourth over the same period of time. Various devices and
mechanical aids are used to increase the distance between the operator and the
radiation source, e.g. long-handled tongs, forceps, clamps and remote pipetting
aids. Note that a small increase in distance can result in significant decrease in the
dose rate.
3. Shielding. Radiation energy-absorbing or attenuating shields placed between the
source and the operator or other occupants of the laboratory will help limit their
exposure. The choice and thickness of any shielding material depends on the
penetrating ability (type and energy) of the radiation. A barrier of acrylic, wood or
lightweight metal, thickness 1.3-1.5 cm, provides shielding against high-energy
beta particles, whereas high-density lead is needed to shield against high energy
gamma and X radiation.
4. Substitution. Radionuclide-based materials should not be used when other
techniques are available. If substitution is not possible, then the radionuclide with
the least penetrating power or energy should be used.
12. Housekeeping
Housekeeping is an important component in the workshop to ensure risks of injury from
potential hazards in the environment are controlled. The following precautions are to be
taken to ensure the safety of personnel within workshop:
a. Floors are to be kept tidy and dry
b. Benches are to be kept clean and free from chemicals and apparatus that are not
being used.
c. Aisles and exits are to be kept free from obstructions.
d. Bottles and glassware are to be kept off the floor.
e. Access to all emergency equipment (fire extinguishers, first aid kits) is to be kept
free from obstruction.
f. Work areas and equipment are to be thoroughly cleaned after use.
g. If last to leave the workshop, make sure all equipment is turned off.
h. If contractors are working in your area, make known to them any hazards that may
exist in your area, i.e. flammable liquids, dusts, combustible material.
13. Worksite Inspection
31
OHS Worksite Inspections involve observations, checklists and discussion, and can
provide valuable information to help manage health and safety in the workplace. The
Worksite Inspection is important for:;
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

• Identification of hazards / risks in the workplace through regular OHS Worksite
inspections.
• Assessment of hazards, and risks identified and implementation of appropriate control
strategies in agreed periods.
14. Training
Students who require basic training session to students who will perform
experimental research and involve the usage of the following:
i. Electronic Screw Driver
ii. Drill press
iii. Magnetic Drill Press
iv. Band Saw
v. Soldering Gun
vi. Grinder
vii. Measurement Tools (e.g., Caliper, Dial Gages)
viii. Welding equipment
ix. PCR machine
The laboratory officer will arrange the schedule and offer the session.
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Appendix 1: LAB SUPPORT STAFF DIRECTORY
Name Designation Building Location Room Ext.
Napie Entalang Mechanical Lab Tech E E217 7830
Nasaruddin Asnawi Electronic Lab Tech E E502 7754
Liz Leonara Civil Lab Tech E E003 7750
Victor Peter Lab Officer E E402 7645
Anand al Mutu Mechanical Lab Tech E E217 7774
Awang Azman Electronic Lab Tech E E502 7753
Fadilah Johari Mechanical Lab Tech E E003 7751
Thomas Manggie Mechanical Lab Tech E E110 7688
Chua Jia Ni Lab Officer B B609A 7865
Nurul Salleh Lab Tech B B701 7953
Dayang Rafika Lab Tech B B701 7953
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Appendix 2: EMERGENCY NUMBERS
Hospitals
Telephone
Fire, Police, Ambulance 999
Kuching Specialist Hospital 082-365 777
Sarawak General Hospital 082-276 999
Timberland Medical Specialist Centre 082-234 466
Normah Medical Specialist Centre 082-311 999
Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak
Campus ‐ Guard House
082 ‐ 260991
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Appendix 3 : FIRST AID RESPONDERS
No. First Aid Responders Tel. Contact (082) No. First Aid Responders Tel. Contact (082)
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
David Sanged 260737
Kok Mei Lan 260762
Abang Arfizan 260824
Siti Khatijah Bolhassan 260855
Onn May Ling 260865
Melissa Ramanair 260799
Sabrina Sim 260736
Lawrence Cornelius ak
Sijem
260865
Khadijah Morshidi 260748
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
Wong Kien Kuok
Thomas Paul Sandah
Morhafila Morshidi
Soon Hua Chan
Bong Siew Ming
Feona Albert Abell
Sena Ahus
260659
260844
260835
260712
260845
260934
260728
10
Karen Kueh Meng Koon
11
Chua Jia Ni 260865
12
Victor Peter 260645
13
Yakub Sebastian 260666
14
Dr. Lakshmanan a/l
Gurusamy
260941
Updated list as per 14 September 2011. Members are competent to perform basic first aid
ONLY.
35
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

Appendix 4 : EMERGENCY PROCEDURE
36
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

Appendix 5 : ASSEMBLY POINT AREA
37
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

Appendix 6 : FIRST AID KIT LOCATION
No Building Person in charge Room No
1
R
Warden
Sports & Recreational Office (R001)
2 Gym (R002)
3 A Warden
Recruitment Reception (A003)
4 B Security Supervisor Security office (B009)
5
A
6
7 B
First Aid Responder / Warden
Personal Assistant,
PVC
Library - Services Desks (A101)
Library - Services Desks (A102)
Chancellery - PVC office (B402)
8
G105
9 G214
G
10 G306
11 G503
12 G621
13 B Warden
B007A
14
A205
A
15 A402
16 B B301
17
E314
E
18 E622
19
Staff lounge (G707)
20
First Aid Responder / Warden
Student Information Centre (G102)
G
21 Sick Bay (G110)
22
23
32 E608
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual
38
Warden
Information Technology Services
E003
24 E004
25 E006
26 E110
Engineering Lab
27 E
Technicians
E214
28 E215
29 E216
30 E406
31 E504

33
B608
34 B609
35 Science Lab
B611
B
36 Technicians
B702
37 B706
38 B708
39 H
Warden apartments (H033)
Wardens
40 HM Warden apartments (HM013)
41 L
Warden
Lecture Theatre (L001)
42
Science Lab
B610
B
43 Technicians
B704
44
E211
45 E212
46 E215
47 E218
48 E329
49 E401
50 E403
51 E404
Engineering Lab
52 E
Technicians
E407
53 E408
54 E409
55 E501
56 E503
57 E505
58 E506
59 E507
60 E508
39
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

Appendix 7 : Department of Transport CLASSIFICATION OF HAZARDOUS MATERIAL
Class 1
Explosives
Class 2
Gases
Class 3
Flammable liquids
Class 4
Flammable solids
Class 5
Oxidizing substances, Organic Peroxide
Class 6
Poisons
Class 7
Radioactive material
Class 8
Corrosive
Class 9
MISCELLANEOUS DANGEROUS
SUBSTANCES
40
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

Appendix 8 : National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Code
41
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

Appendix 9 : Acronyms
OHS / OSH - Occupational Health and Safety / Occupational Safety and Health
PCR - Polymerase Chain Reaction
NFPA - National Fire Protection Association
PPE - Personal Protective Equipment
MSDS - Material Safety Data Sheet
ITS - Information Technology and Services
HSE - Health and Safety Executive
PVC - Pro-Vice Chancellor
SIC - Student Information Centre
42
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

RESPONSIBILITY
Owner
Head, School of Engineering, Computing and Science
VERSION CONTROL AND CHANGE HISTORY
Version
Number
Approval Date Approved by Amendment
2 21 November
2011
SMT
Reason for Change
1. To update the Safety Manual
according to OHS Worksite
Inspection Checklist B – Section 3.2.
2. To update Lab Support Staff
Directory.
3. To include the Emergency Numbers
in the manual.
4. To include the First Aid Responder’s
number.
5. To include Emergency Procedure.
6. To include the Assembly Point Area
in the University campus.
7. To include the list of First Aid
location.
8. To include the Department of
Transport Classification of Hazardous
Material.
9. To include NFPA code.
10. To update the Safety Manual –
introducing specific guidelines for
Microbiology Laboratory
Biochemistry / Chemistry
Laboratory
Biology Laboratory
Engineering Laboratory
Engineering Workshop
Description of Changes
1. Added References section – whereby
the guidelines are adapted from
recognized international guideline.
2. Added Responsibilities section to
elaborate the responsibility of Heads
of Management, Laboratory
Coordinator Staff & Students, the
Health and Safety Executive in
43
SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

ensuring the Laboratory safety in
SoECS.
3. Added specific guidelines from
Microbiology/Biology Laboratory,
Biochemistry / Chemistry Laboratory
and Engineering Laboratory /
Workshop under General Guideline.
4. Added Waste Handling guideline.
5. Added Decontamination guideline.
6. Added Biohazard Waste Disposal
guideline.
7. Added Chemicals Waste Disposal
guideline.
8. Added Sharps guideline.
9. Added Contaminated (potentially
infectious) materials for autoclaving
and reuse guideline.
10. Added Contaminated (potentially
infectious) materials for disposal
guideline.
11. Added Personal Protective
Equipment (PPE) guideline.
12. Added Lab coats, Gowns, Coveralls,
Aprons guideline.
13. Added Goggles, Safety Spectacles,
Face Shields guideline.
14. Added Respirators guideline.
15. Added Gloves guideline.
16. Added Foot Protection guideline.
17. Added Ear Protection guideline.
18. Added Head Protection guideline.
19. Added Hazardous Chemicals
guideline.
20. Added Store of Chemicals guideline.
21. Added General Rules Regarding
Chemical Incompatibilities
22. Added Toxic Effects of Chemicals
guideline.
23. Added Explosive Chemical guideline.
24. Added Chemical Spills guideline.
25. Added Compressed and Liquefied
Gases guideline.
26. Added Handling of Cylinders
guideline.
27. Added Cryogenic Liquids guideline.
28. Added Handling Cryogenic Liquids
guideline.
44 SoECS Laboratory Safety Manual

29. Added Moving Cylinders guideline.
30. Added Material Safety Data Sheet
(MSDS) guideline.
31. Added Labelling guideline.
32. Added Fire Hazards
33. Added How To Use an Extinguisher
34. Added Sand / Absorbent Material
guideline.
35. Added Sprinklers guideline.
36. Added Storage Handling guideline.
37. Added Type of Cabinets
38. Added Refrigerators guideline.
39. Added Eye Wash Station guideline.
40. Added First Aid Kit guideline.
41. Added Emergency guideline.
42. Added Fire Drill guideline.
43. Added Incident, Hazard Reporting
and Identification guideline.
44. Added Electrical Hazards guideline.
45. Added Noise guideline.
46. Added Ionising Radiation guideline.
47. Added Principles of Ionizing
Radiation Protect guideline.
48. Added Housekeeping guideline.
49. Added Worksite Inspection
guideline.
50. Added Training guideline.
1 8 December 2009 SMT New manual